The Pesticide Action Network of Blaine County has been working hard on changing local weed-control methods in public spaces to protect kids and the public's health. As part of our efforts, the valley now has goats on the Wood River Trail, munching weeds and serving as four-footed ambassadors for safer, chemical-free weed management.
A lot of work went into the project before one goat set foot on the trail. One of the unsung heroes of this effort is Malia Leonard of Blaine County's Weed Department.
When we first started working on the idea, Malia convened meetings with key land managers through the Blaine County Cooperative Weed Management Area. She helped build support for the idea of goat grazing as a truly professional option by inviting a regional expert here to speak to the Cooperative Weed Management Area. She also worked diligently to pursue funding for the project through the Idaho State Department of Agriculture.
Due to budget constraints, the project didn't receive state support. But Malia helped a good idea gain some momentum and the Pesticide Action Network was able to craft the partnership we now have with the Blaine County Recreation District.
Changes to local weed management, such as using goats on the Wood River Trail, involve more planning and coordination than simple spraying programs. The Pesticide Action Network's success rests on our ability to collaborate with people and draw on the resources at hand in our community. We look forward to continuing to work with the Cooperative Weed Management Area and our local weed department to keep kids safe and make good things happen when it comes to managing weeds.
Kathryn Goldman
Campaign director
Pesticide Action Network of Blaine County
